Hello All,
For quite some time I have been shooting with "imitation" fluid heads; Sony and *shudder* sunpak . At this point, I feel my skills and eye have developed adequately to invest some money in a quality set of sticks and a fluid head. I shoot with a Sony HDR-FX1 (4.4lbs) and expect to be purchasing a 35mm adapter down the road, likely the redrock m2. I'm looking to spend between $300-$1000. I was originally leaning towards manfrotto as I have plenty of ENG experience with their sticks and heads. Sachtler also is looking very good.

I use a Manfrotto 503 head (recently updated to the 503 HDV model) and found it to be great. For legs I use a 755B, but they're a little flimsy for studio work (I need light weight for running around doing interviews).

I use a Manfrotto 503 head (recently updated to the 503 HDV model) and found it to be great. For legs I use a 755B, but they're a little flimsy for studio work (I need light weight for running around doing interviews).

With that out of the way, I find Sachtler is generally more durable than Manfrotto.

Yes, true that. But on the other hand, one of the heavier Manfrotto heads (such as the 526 or so) will serve you well if treated with care. I have had my 510/500MVB combo for 8 years now, and they're ok for medium weight cameras. It's rated up to 10,5kg but I wouldn't put any long focal lengths on near that limit...